FORMULA-PST-CHI-001 // SWEET & SPICY CHILI PASTE No.1
Smoky Prune Chili PASTE | UMAMI COntrast
DESCRIPTION
Sweet & Spicy Chili Paste No.1 is a rich condiment built around dried fruit sweetness, chili heat, and deep savory undertones. The paste is based on prunes macerated in balsamic vinegar, which creates a dense and complex foundation combining sweetness, acidity, and fruit depth.
Molasses reinforces the dark sweetness of the prunes while adding a slightly bitter caramel note. Chipotle powder and smoked paprika introduce chili warmth and smoky aromas, while sesame oil contributes a toasted nutty complexity.
Mesoterráneo Blend No.2 adds additional spice structure to the paste, creating a layered seasoning that bridges Mediterranean and Mesoamerican flavor influences.
The result is a thick, glossy paste with a balanced combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. The texture remains slightly textured due to the addition of whole sesame seeds after blending, which provide a pleasant crunch and visual contrast.
This paste functions especially well as a finishing condiment for smoked foods, roasted vegetables, or rich meats where its sweet heat can provide contrast and balance.
FORMULA
Ingredients
Prunes (pitted) — 100 g
Balsamic vinegar — 50 g
Mesoterráneo Blend No.2 — 12 g
Chipotle chili powder — 5 g
Pimentón de la Vera — 3 g
Salt — 3 g
Roasted sesame oil — 5 g
Sesame seeds — 5 g
Grapeseed oil — 25 g
Molasses — 35 g
Total Formula Weight
243 g
Storage
Refrigerated in airtight container:
Optimal flavor window:
10–30 days
Maximum storage:
Up to 8 weeks
METHOD
Place the pitted prunes in a container and macerate them overnight with the balsamic vinegar.
The next day transfer the prunes and their maceration liquid to a food processor. Add Mesoterráneo Blend No.2, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, salt, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, and molasses.
Process until a thick paste forms.
Once the paste is fully blended, fold in the sesame seeds manually to preserve their texture and structure.
Transfer to a jar and store refrigerated. Let it sit for a couple of days before you using it; allow for the flavors to settle in.
Serve at room temperature if used as garnish.
APPLICATIONS
Smoked Meats & Ham
Serve as a condiment alongside smoked ham, smoked pork, or cured meats.
Smoked Cheeses
Pair with smoked cheeses to create sweet–smoky contrast.
Roasted Vegetables
Use as a glaze or condiment for roasted vegetables such as butternut squash or carrots.
Sweet Vegetables
Works especially well with sweet vegetables like beets, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin.
Grilled Meats
Add small amounts to marinades or finishing sauces.
Cheese Boards
Serve as a sweet-spicy accompaniment to aged cheeses.
NOTES
The sweetness of the paste comes primarily from prunes and molasses, balanced by the acidity of balsamic vinegar and the smokiness of chipotle and paprika.
Sesame seeds are added after blending to maintain their texture and provide small bursts of crunch.
Because the paste contains both sugar and vinegar, it behaves similarly to a chutney or glaze and should be used sparingly to balance savory dishes.
Experimental Uses
Possible variations include:
• mixing with soy sauce to create a glaze for grilled meats
• blending with yogurt for a sweet-spicy dipping sauce
• incorporating into barbecue sauces
• adding to braising liquids for pork or lamb
• using as a finishing glaze for roasted vegetables
Photo Observation
The paste displays a deep dark-brown color due to the combination of prunes, molasses, and chili powders. The glossy appearance reflects the oils and natural sugars present in the mixture. Sesame seeds remain visible throughout the paste, providing texture and visual contrast.
FLAVOR & AROMA MAP
Herbal ●○○○○
Warm Spice ●●●○○
Sweet Spice ●●●●○
Heat ●●●○○
Umami ●●●●○
Smoke ●●●○○
Interpretation
This paste sits strongly in the sweet–smoky–savory spectrum, combining dried fruit sweetness with chili warmth and balsamic acidity. Sesame oil and molasses deepen the umami richness.
